Experience the beauty of Japan’s autumn foliage in Hakone, where majestic maple leaves and glorious golden foliage transform the landscape into a vibrant, picture-perfect retreat. These breathtaking backdrops make it an ideal getaway for nature lovers and photographers alike. Don't forget to check out the Hakone "Freepass" for savings on transportation and more!
Hakone is a scenic mountain town just west of Tokyo, known for its natural beauty, relaxing hot springs, and cultural attractions. During the Edo Period of Japan, it served as a post station along the "Tokaido Highway" which was a route that connected Edo (old Tokyo) to Kyoto. Part of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, it offers stunning views of Mount Fuji, serene lakes such as Lake Ashi, and lush forests. Visitors can enjoy traditional ryokan inns, the Hakone Open-Air Museum, historic sites, and unique transportation like ropeways and pirate ships. Check out our page on how to get to Hakone here!
Planning your autumn escape away from Tokyo's concrete jungle? Here's your essential guide to our top recommendations for experiencing the stunning fall foliage in Hakone:
1 - Hakone Tozan Train
Best viewing time: early November to late November
Highlights:
- Hakone Open-Air Museum
- Gora Station
- Miyanoshita Station
- Tonosawa Station
One of Hakone's most iconic attractions is the Hakone Tozan train. If you are taking the Odakyu Romancecar, this train can be accessed at Hakone-Yumoto Station. This is a special train on a mountain railway, one of the few in Japan, and performs three switchbacks as it traverses up the incline. Along the railway, you will have opportunities to see the autumn foliage and get off at different stations to explore. A popular stop is Chokoku-no-Mori Station. From here it is only a short walk to the Hakone Open-Air Museum. Other popular stops include Tonosawa Station and Miyanoshita Station. Tonosawa Station provides access to historical ryokan (traditional Japanese style inn), a hiking trail, and Amidaji Temple, also known as the "Hydrangea Temple". At Miyanoshita Station you will find calming coffee shops, antique shops, and one of Japan's first "Western" style hotels, Fujiya. This hotel has hosted many famous people such as John Lennon, Charlie Chaplin, Helen Keller, and more. The last stop, Gora Station, is where our next suggestion is.
2 - Gora and Sounzan
Best viewing time: early November to late November
Highlights:
- Hakone Museum of Art
- Gora Park
- Sounzan Station Observation Deck
- Hakone Ropeway
The last stop on the Tozan Railway is Gora Station. There are many attractions here, but the best place for autumn foliage is Shinsenkyo Garden inside the Hakone Museum of Art. You can either walk from the station or hop on the Hakone Tozan Cable Car. You can also take a small detour and walk through Gora Park, which will have its own autumn rainbow of trees. Gora station is also the beginning of the Hakone Tozan Cable Car that takes visitors up to Sounzan Station. At Sounzan station there is a panoramic observation deck that also has a foot bath that is perfect for relaxing after exploring all day! Sounzan Station is where you will transfer to the Hakone Ropeway if you also plan on exploring more of what Hakone has to offer. The ropeway has spectacular ariel views of the area as well.
3 - Lake Ashi (Ashinoko)
Best viewing time: early November to late November
Highlights:
- Pirate Ship Cruise
- Hakone Shrine
- Hakone Shrine "Red Gate of Peace"
On the other end of the ropeway from Sounzan Station is Lake Ashi. Lake Ashi provides wonderful views of Mount Fuji, and if you're lucky, you'll be able to see some of the first snowfall on its peak. A great activity to do on the lake is cruise on Hakone's very own pirate ship! You can see all of the wonderful autumn colors of the surrounding forests from the pirate ship as you sail across Lake Ashi to the other side. Once at Motohakone Port, or "Motohakone-ko", it is just a short walk to the very famous Hakone Shrine. The shrine has a very famous torii gate at the water's edge called the "red gate of peace". It is also a very popular photo spot!
Want to experience the beauty of Hakone for yourself? Check out our recommended tour where one of our local guides takes you around on the Tozan Railway, ropeway, pirate ship, and more!
4 - Sengokuhara
Best viewing time: late October to late November
Highlights:
- Sengokuhara Susuki Grass Fields
- Choanji Temple
Sengokuhara Susuki Grass Fields offers a reprieve from the usual autumn foliage, and possibly large crowds. Tucked away in the town that it is named after, Sengokuhara, these grass fields are filled to the brim with "susuki". In English, it is referred to as pampas grass, silver grass, or Chinese silver grass. It is quintessential autumn foliage in Japan and in a giant field like this, it turns the landscape into wispy waves of light amber. Another location to see autumn leaves in Sengokuhara is Choanji Temple. This temple was established in 1356 and is home to over 200 statues of Rakan (disciples of Buddha). These two locations may not peak at the same time so be careful!
5 - Daiyuzan Saijoji Temple
Best viewing time: late October to late November
Though not located within Hakone, our last recommendation is easily accessed from the Hakone area or on your way to Hakone. Daiyuzan Saijoji Temple is a Soto Zen Buddhism temple and was built in 1394 by Ryoan-emyo-zenji. Within the temple's sprawling 1.3 square kilometers, you can enjoy walking amongst the over-300-year-old cedar trees. Saijoji Temple and the legendary creature Tengu, from Shinto and Buddhist folklore, have a deep connection and you can find many statues dedicated to them throughout the temple grounds. You can also find their footwear, geta, in many sizes on display. However, the beauty of this temple is not limited to just autumn. Don't hesitate to make your trip out here during any of the seasons to enjoy the cherry blossoms, wisteria, hydrangeas, and more! Many people make their pilgrimage here to receive blessings during the new year celebrations.
How to Get to Hakone
Looking to explore this wonderful area at your own pace? Be sure to check out our page on how to get to Hakone from popular places such as Tokyo, Nagano, Kyoto, and more!
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is a good day trip to see autumn leaves outside of Tokyo?
There are many great places to see autumn leaves outside of Tokyo, but it will depend on how much time you have and your budget. Hakone is a great place to go since it is a direct train ride away from Tokyo. They also sell an area "Freepass" that gives perks such as free local bus transport, free access to the ropeway, and many more! Check out our pages on Mount Fuji and Nikko autumn leaves for more travel ideas.
When is the best time to see autumn leaves in Hakone?
The best time to see autumn leaves in Hakone is late October to late November. Sometimes the timing changes due to weather factors, but this is generally a good window. Mid November is when most areas are at their peak.
What should I wear or bring for a comfortable autumn foliage trip in the area?
Wear layered clothing, including a light jacket or sweater, as temperatures can vary throughout the day. In November, temperatures tend to hover near 16°C in the daytime, cooling down to around 10°C at night. And as always, comfortable walking shoes, a camera, and possibly a thermos or snacks are also recommended.
Final Tips for Visiting in Autumn
- Book accommodation and tours in advance—fall is a peak travel season.
- Don't forget to check operating hours of every facility you may be visiting. Hours of operation often change based on season or public holiday.
- Bring layers! Temperatures can shift quickly, especially in mountainous areas.
- Consider combining a leaf-viewing trip with onsen (hot springs) or a local food tour for the full autumn experience.
